Maria 1650

Mattheus Borrekens created this print, entitled "Maria," sometime in the 17th century. The image presents the Virgin Mary with arms outstretched, her gaze lifted towards the heavens, surrounded by a halo of divine light. Borrekens was working in Antwerp at a time of intense religious conflict and the Catholic Church played a vital role in shaping cultural and political life. Prints like this one served as devotional objects, reinforcing Catholic doctrine and inspiring religious fervor among the faithful. The imagery draws upon well-established visual codes for representing the Virgin Mary, such as her humble demeanor and association with light, that had strong cultural associations for its intended audience. Understanding an artwork like this involves looking into the social conditions in which it was made. Researching the history of religious institutions, popular piety, and artistic patronage in 17th-century Antwerp helps us to grasp the full significance of Borrekens's "Maria" as both a work of art and a cultural artifact.